Buying Property in Spain

Professional Legal and Tax Assistance for Foreign Property Buyers in Spain

Purchasing property in Spain is an exciting investment opportunity, whether you are buying a holiday home, relocating permanently, investing in real estate or planning your retirement on the Costa del Sol. However, buying property involves much more than signing a purchase contract. Foreign buyers must comply with several legal, tax and administrative requirements before and after completing the transaction.

At Alejo Serra Bradford, we provide comprehensive legal, immigration and tax assistance to foreign nationals purchasing property anywhere in Spain. Our objective is to guide our clients through every stage of the process, helping them understand their legal obligations while ensuring that all administrative and tax requirements are properly fulfilled.

Whether you are buying your first property in Spain or expanding your international real estate portfolio, professional advice from the outset can help you avoid unnecessary complications and make the purchasing process considerably smoother.

Who May Need This Service?

Our services are particularly suitable for:

• Non-residents purchasing holiday homes.

• Individuals relocating permanently to Spain.

• Retirees investing in Spanish property.

• International investors.

• Digital nomads planning to move to Spain.

• Families purchasing a permanent residence.

• Foreign nationals acquiring rental properties.

• Buyers requiring tax and immigration advice before relocating.

Regardless of whether you are purchasing an apartment, villa, townhouse or commercial property, we can assist you in understanding the legal and tax implications of your investment.

Our Services

We provide personalised assistance with a wide range of services related to property purchases, including:

• Obtaining your Spanish NIE Number.

• Assistance with obtaining a Spanish Digital Certificate.

• Advice regarding Spanish tax residence.

• Registration with the Spanish Tax Agency where required.

• Annual Non-Resident Income Tax (Model 210) compliance.

• Personal Income Tax (IRPF) for Spanish residents.

• Model 720 reporting obligations.

• Wealth Tax advice where applicable.

• Guidance on property-related tax obligations.

• Tax planning before relocating to Spain.

• Advice regarding residence permits and immigration options.

• Coordination with lawyers, notaries, estate agents and other professionals involved in the transaction.

Our services are designed to ensure that clients not only complete their purchase successfully but also understand the ongoing obligations associated with property ownership in Spain.

Tax Considerations

Buying property in Spain may create several tax obligations depending on your residency status and how you intend to use the property.

For example:

• Non-resident property owners may need to file Model 210 every year.

• Spanish tax residents may be required to declare worldwide income through Personal Income Tax (IRPF).

• High-net-worth individuals may become subject to Spanish Wealth Tax.

• Certain foreign assets may need to be reported through Model 720.

• Rental income may be taxable in Spain.

• Capital Gains Tax may apply when the property is sold.

Understanding these obligations before completing your purchase allows for better long-term tax planning.

Immigration Considerations

Many property buyers also intend to relocate permanently to Spain.

Depending on your nationality and personal circumstances, different immigration options may be available, including:

• EU Registration Certificate (CUE).

• Residence Card for Family Members of EU Citizens.

• Non-Lucrative Visa.

• Digital Nomad Visa.

• Other residence permits available under Spanish immigration legislation.

Choosing the appropriate immigration pathway before moving to Spain is essential for ensuring legal residence and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Why Choose Alejo Serra Bradford?

Purchasing property in Spain often involves legal, immigration and tax issues simultaneously.

Unlike many professionals who focus on only one aspect of the transaction, we provide integrated advice combining:

• Spanish taxation.

• International tax planning.

• Immigration procedures.

• Administrative assistance.

• Ongoing tax compliance after the purchase.

This multidisciplinary approach enables our clients to receive practical advice tailored to their personal circumstances, helping them make informed decisions before, during and after purchasing property in Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an NIE before buying property in Spain?

Yes. In almost every property transaction, foreign buyers must obtain a Spanish Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) before completing the purchase.

Can non-residents buy property in Spain?

Absolutely. Spain places no general restrictions on foreign nationals purchasing real estate, although certain legal and tax obligations apply.

Will I have to pay taxes after buying the property?

In most cases, yes. Depending on your residency status and how the property is used, you may have ongoing tax obligations, including Model 210, Personal Income Tax, Wealth Tax or other reporting requirements.

Should I seek tax advice before purchasing?

Yes. Early tax planning can help you understand your future obligations, avoid unexpected tax liabilities and structure your investment appropriately from the beginning.

Contact Us

If you are planning to purchase property in Spain, professional advice before signing any documents can help you avoid unnecessary legal and tax complications.

At Alejo Serra Bradford, we provide comprehensive assistance to foreign buyers, combining immigration advice, tax planning and administrative support throughout the entire purchasing process.

Whether you are buying a holiday home, an investment property or your future permanent residence, we will be pleased to guide you every step of the way and help ensure that your investment in Spain is both secure and fully compliant with Spanish legislation.